London-Heathrow Airport (LHR) says more than 40 airlines are currently seeking access to slots as calls for expansion and a third runway intensify.
On October 12, 2026, airport management said demand for access continues to exceed available capacity forcing airlines to “choose competing hubs overseas” therefore “taking connectivity, trade and growth opportunities away from the UK”.
In an interview in September 2026, the UK Prime Minister appeared to refuse to back a third runway at Heathrow. The Mayor of London Sadiq Khan has also been a long-term critic for further expansion.
In its latest comments, Heathrow argued that a larger airport would create space for new airlines and new routes, increase competition and drive down fares for consumers.
“Airlines as well as airports across the UK, including Aberdeen, Belfast City, Cornwall Newquay, Glasgow, Leeds, Newcastle and Teesside all want Heathrow to expand at pace to improve connectivity and enable growth,” a spokesperson at Heathrow Airport said.
Heathrow CEO to give evidence to MPs
Later this week, Heathrow CEO Thomas Woldbye will give evidence at the Transport Select Committee’s hearing on the Heathrow Expansion National Policy Statement (‘HENPS’), which is currently being reviewed by parliament.
“This is not simply an investment in an airport. It is an investment in the UK’s future competitiveness,” Woldbye. “At a time when other international hubs continue to grow and attract new routes, this country has an opportunity to strengthen its global connections and unlock growth in every nation and region.”
In its statement, Heathrow said a growing coalition of politicians, trade unions, businesses, workers, regional airports and airlines are backing expansion. According to the airport, polling also shows 68% of local people support progressing the project.
“There is now a clear path forward,” Woldbye said. “The private investment is available, the benefits are well understood, and the Government has confirmed expansion can be delivered within net zero targets. After decades of discussion, Parliament now has the opportunity to unlock a project that can deliver lasting benefits for generations to come. We are ready to deliver it.”
Passenger numbers in September 2026
Heathrow welcomed almost 7.2 million passengers in September 2026, a 2.3% drop from the same month last year.
Travel to the Middle East fell by 20%, but there was an increase in flights to and from Asia-Pacific.
“New passenger figures published today show passenger demand remained strong with nearly 7.2 million passengers travelling through Heathrow in September, including almost 1.4 million transfer passengers who by using the UK’s hub make additional destinations for airlines commercially viable for UK passengers and businesses,” Heathrow said.
Cargo volumes grew 5% in September year-on-year, “underlining Heathrow’s role as the UK’s largest port by value”.
Over the last 12 months, over 84 million passengers have used Heathrow Airport.